My anxiety and depression diagnoses serve a valuable purpose. — In 2014, I was in a dark place in my life. I blamed my anxiety and depression on the “quarter-life crisis.” But really, that was just my attempt to wish away my mood disorders. …

When hope dims, affirmations rekindle the flame. Here are my six favorite affirmations. Exerting effort at anything and not seeing positive results can be discouraging, I learned this after job rejections, friendship losses, breakups, poor grades, and failure to meet personal goals. Perhaps you’ve had some of these experiences, too. …

Although mental health stigma has declined over the last year, it is still a major issue. Here are some ideas on how to recognize and reduce it. Mental health stigma affects how we perceive psychiatric disorders. It also affects self-esteem and progress in mental health treatment. …

A double-etheree poem to help you wake up — Waking up early in the morning is difficult to do. I feel like the winter makes it even harder. Luckily, writing has been a huge motivator for me. Here is a poem I was inspired to write this morning. Dawn Morning 8 a.m. After sunrise Embrace the silence before a hectic day. Then drink coffee or…

Song lyrics by some of my favorite Christian artists — Early this morning, I felt like I wasted my time writing a story for a scammer. There I was, praising God for this opportunity that turned out to be fake. What a disappointment. For a few minutes, it was easy to blame God for opening a door that seemed to…

Every second counts. — Life Fleeting Years go by Experience Learn vital lessons Past, present, and future Exciting, disappointing Surprising, weird, and confusing Different seasons, sporadic phases One second is not the same as the next. Anything can change in just one instant. Nothing will stay the same forever. Enjoy the good times while they last. Learn, heal, and grow from the past. Talk about how you feel. Reminisce…

A Poem Recently, I was thinking about how to describe anxiety and depression in a poem. I hope this makes people who struggle with those conditions feel less alone. However, if the topic of mental illness triggers you, please read with discretion. Stress Heavy Relentless Anxiety It’s all-consuming; It makes your heart race fast. There is…

Usually, I enjoy working out to hard rock at the gym. It increases my energy and makes time fly by quickly. But sometimes, I like to listen to comedy. Yesterday, I found something new to feel insecure about while working out: my obnoxious laughter at the gym! My laugh sounds…

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. (Isaiah 41:10, NLT) When I was in my mid-teens, I had my first Grand Mal seizure. I…